The viola, often overlooked in the history of string instruments, has been an important part of musical practice since the 16th century. This paper traces its journey and development from an accompanying instrument in ensembles and orchestras to an independent concert instrument with a distinctive musical identity. Special emphasis is placed on two key centers of string instrument making – Cremona and Brescia – as well as on the work of the most important masters of the time and how their innovations contributed to the viola’s evolution.
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